Can You Get Pregnant While Taking Menstrual Induction Pills?

Can you get pregnant if you have unprotected sex during menstruation while taking menstrual induction medication?

I usually have irregular menstrual cycles, but they generally occur around every 35 days.
My last period started on June 19, and by the end of July, I still hadn't gotten my period.
I took a home pregnancy test and it was negative.
On August 4, I visited the clinic for another pregnancy test, which also came back negative.
The doctor explained the option of taking medication to induce menstruation and mentioned that it is still possible to be in the early stages of pregnancy and not detect it yet.
I was advised to return for a follow-up after taking the medication if my period did not start.
I chose to take the medication but forgot to inquire about contraception during this period.
I took the medication for 5 days, 12 hours apart.

My questions are:
1.
From the first day I started taking the medication until my period starts, do I still need to use additional contraception? My reasoning is that if I am pregnant, it wouldn't matter, and if I'm not pregnant, the medication should induce my period anyway.
Is it necessary to use additional contraception during this time?
2.
I purchased a 21-day supply of birth control pills at the clinic.
I plan to start taking them on the first day of my induced period.
When will they become effective for contraception?
Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.

MOMO, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/06

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, because your menstrual cycle is irregular, it is best to use contraception while taking menstrual regulation medication.
Start taking the contraceptive pill on the fifth day of your period, and if taken consistently, it will be effective for contraception.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/08/06

More Info

When it comes to the use of menstrual induction pills and the possibility of becoming pregnant, there are several important factors to consider. Menstrual induction pills, often containing hormones such as progesterone or estrogen, are typically used to regulate menstrual cycles or induce menstruation in cases of irregular periods. However, their use can raise questions about the potential for pregnancy, especially if there is a chance that conception has already occurred.

1. Can You Get Pregnant While Taking Menstrual Induction Pills?
It is theoretically possible to become pregnant while taking menstrual induction pills if ovulation has occurred and sperm is present. If you have irregular periods and are unsure of your ovulation cycle, it can be challenging to determine whether you are pregnant or not. If you have taken a pregnancy test that shows negative results, it is likely that you are not pregnant, but it is important to note that some tests may not detect pregnancy in its very early stages.
If you start taking menstrual induction pills, and you are indeed pregnant, the hormones in these pills could potentially affect the pregnancy. However, the risk of harm largely depends on the timing and dosage of the medication. If you suspect you might be pregnant, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider before continuing with any hormonal medication.

2. Need for Additional Contraception During Induction Treatment:
If you are taking menstrual induction pills, it is advisable to use additional contraception during this period. The reason for this is that if you are in the early stages of pregnancy, the induction pills may not be effective in terminating the pregnancy, and if you are not pregnant, the pills may induce menstruation as intended. However, if you are sexually active and there is a possibility of conception, using additional contraception can help prevent unintended pregnancy.

3. Starting Birth Control Pills:
If you plan to start taking birth control pills after your menstrual induction, it is generally recommended to begin taking them on the first day of your period. This is when the hormonal levels are reset, and the birth control pills can effectively prevent ovulation. Most healthcare providers suggest that you use backup contraception (such as condoms) for the first seven days after starting the birth control pills to ensure maximum effectiveness. After this initial period, the birth control pills should provide reliable contraception.

4. Consulting with Your Healthcare Provider:
Given your situation, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history, the specific medications you are taking, and your reproductive goals. If you have concerns about potential pregnancy or the effects of menstrual induction pills, your doctor can offer guidance on the best course of action.

In summary, while it is possible to become pregnant while taking menstrual induction pills, the likelihood depends on various factors, including your menstrual cycle and timing of ovulation. It is advisable to use additional contraception during this period and to consult with your healthcare provider for tailored advice and to ensure that you are making informed decisions regarding your reproductive health.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Menstrual Induction Pills?

Is it still possible to get pregnant after taking menstrual induction medication and having a period?

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
After taking menstrual induction medication and having a period, it is not possible to be pregnant.

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Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Typically, the ovaries have not yet resumed ovulation, and since condoms were used, pregnancy is unlikely. Sincerely, Dr. Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

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Mr. Zhang Xuan: Hello, regarding the issue you raised, it is still possible. If your period has not arrived a week after taking the menstrual induction medication, you should take a pregnancy test again. Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.

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Hello, the likelihood of getting pregnant during the use of menstrual induction medication is low. However, it is always best to use comprehensive contraceptive measures at all times and not to rely on the "safe period." If your period is more than a week late, it is ad...